How Long Does Caprylic Acid Take to Work?

By April Sanders

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Uses

Caprylic acid is a short-chain fatty acid composed of eight carbons. It is used to treat and cure fungus and yeast infections, especially candidiasis, which is overgrowth of yeast in the large intestine. It is also used to treat thrush, vaginitis and jock itch.

Caprylic acid comes in capsule, liquid or tablet form. The standard dose for treating any type of fungal infection is 1,000 milligrams per day. Caprylic acid is usually taken for up to two weeks, depending on the infection and the severity of the infection.

Rapidly Digested

For caprylic acid to have the maximum benefit, it needs to reach the large intestine. Unfortunately, it is rapidly digested and often does not make it to the large intestine, as the stomach and small intestine absorb it first. Therefore, the best way to take caprylic acid is to find a brand that comes in a time-release caplet. That way, the acid will spread throughout the large intestine and colon, killing the yeast.

The effects of caprylic acid can be felt within hours of taking it. At first, you might feel worse, because the dead yeast cells are being processed by the liver as toxins. As the toxins leave your body, you may have headaches and nausea. After a day or two, you should start feeling better and having more energy.

How it Works

Scientists do not understand exactly how caprylic acid works. They believe that the acid most likely dissolves the membranes around yeast cells, causing them to eventually disintegrate.

Because candida burrow deeply into the mucous lining of the large intestine and colon, scientists also believe that the fat-soluble properties of caprylic acid help it penetrate the mucous membranes and reach the yeast growth.